58°
MAMARONECK, N.Y. -- Jeremy Perelman has had cigarette smoke blown in his face while waiting for a train at the Mamaroneck Metro-North station, and can appreciate first-hand the law signed by New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo Monday to prohibit smoking on MTA-operated platforms.
"I just think someone else's smoking affects everyone, whether it's at a bar, a restaurant or a train station," said Perelman, who remembers having to walk 30 feet down the Mamaroneck platform to get away from someone's cigarette smoke. "It's necessary, I think."
The New York State Department of Health estimates that second-hand smoke kills 2,500 New Yorkers every year, according to a press release announcing the ban, which will take effect in 90 days. The law also includes the Long Island Rail Road.
"It is important that commuters are not unwillingly subject to the dangers of second-hand smoke while waiting on train platforms," Cuomo said. "Exposure to second-hand smoke can lead to serious health problems for non-smokers and this law will make outdoor MTA train platforms, ticketing and boarding areas a cleaner, healthier place for all commuters."
Smoking is already prohibited on all New York City subway platforms and this law extends protections to LIRR and Metro-North stations.
"People don't choose to second-hand smoke, but are forced to inhale it anyway," said Chris Rayner, a Larchmont resident. "This bill is the right move."
How do you feel about the smoking ban on the Metro-North? Comment below, or joing the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mamaroneck and receive free news updates.
